Harvard stomach doctor names the eight everyday items and foods you should ditch NOW before it's too late
From scratched frying pans to plastic water bottles, Dr Saurabh Sethi says most people are 'unknowingly exposed' to harmful chemicals.
Those can then damage the gut, disrupt hormones and even affect brain health – and the worst part is, they're hiding in plain sight.
1. Scratched or chipped non-stick pans
At the top of Dr Sethi's list are damaged nonstick pans.
'If it's scratched or chipped, it's done,' he warned.
Some cookware can release toxic fumes and microplastics, especially when heated to high temperatures.
Instead, he recommends switching to ceramic, cast iron, or stainless steel cookware for safety.
2. Artificial sweeteners
Popular sugar substitutes like aspartame and sucralose can disrupt gut bacteria, interfere with appetite signals, and are linked to glucose intolerance.
Pure monk fruit, stevia, or whole fruit are healthier alternatives that won't compromise gut health.
3. Plastic water bottles
Particularly in the heat, plastic bottles can leach hormone-disrupting chemicals such as BPA - even those labelled BPA-free.
Dr Sethi advises making the switch to stainless steel or glass bottles to avoid these exposures altogether.
4. Ultra-processed packaged foods
Dr Sethi says many packaged snacks and ready meals are packed with seed oils, emulsifiers, gums, and preservatives, all of which can damage the gut lining and affect metabolism.
'If you can't recognise the ingredients, leave it on the shelf,' he said, recommending whole, minimally processed foods instead.
5. Scented candles and air fresheners
Your home's fragrance could be doing more harm than good.
Dr Sethi warns that many candles and sprays contain phthalates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are linked to hormone disruption and inflammation.
Beeswax candles, essential oil diffusers, or just good ventilation are safer options.
6. Deli meats with preservatives
Cold cuts and processed meats often contain sodium nitrite and nitrate, preservatives linked to inflammation, changes in the gut microbiome, and even increased cancer risk.
Dr Sethi says opting for freshly cooked meats is a better choice for long-term health.
7. Antibacterial soaps with triclosan
Triclosan doesn't just kill harmful bacteria – it wipes out good bacteria too, potentially harming the skin barrier and, indirectly, gut health.
Dr Sethi recommends sticking to plain soap and water for everyday use.
8. Fragrance-heavy laundry detergents and dryer sheets
Many laundry products are loaded with synthetic fragrances and phthalates that cling to clothing and can irritate the skin and disrupt hormones over time.
Dr Sethi suggests switching to fragrance-free detergents or using wool dryer balls with a few drops of essential oil.
'You don't need to fear everything,' Dr Sethi said.
'But reducing your toxin load is one of the easiest ways to support your gut, brain, and hormones.'
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